Reflexology is a gentle and relaxing holistic therapy based on the principle that reflex points on the feet are connected to corresponding areas of the body. Reflexologists work with their thumbs and fingers using a variety of techniques to help the body return to a state of balance.

Potential benefits of reflexology can include:

• Stress reduction

• Improved energy levels

• Removal of toxins from the body

• Improved sleep pattern

• Stronger immune system

• A feeling of well-being or harmony

Reflexology is said to have begun as far back as 5000 year ago with the acupressure therapy from China. There are also ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs showing therapists working on feet and hands. Both seem to give the basis of applying pressure to the feet or hands to affect the energy flow in the body.

Through time, this evolved into zone therapy, and the Victorians used the principle of dividing the body into ten vertical sections, or zones, each ending with a finger or toe. As they applied pressure to that zone through the fingertip, the whole of that zone would be affected. Eventually, this was refined so that the organs of the body were mapped onto the feet, as seen on the foot charts used today.